Minoxidil 3% (Minoxidil)

Adult dosage

1) After thoroughly drying hair and scalp, apply 0.5 to 1 g (gel) or 0.5 to 1 mL (liquid) of this medication to the affected area twice a day (morning, evening) for a minimum of 4 months. 2) The total daily dose should not exceed 2 g for gel formulations or 2 mL for liquid formulations. (Men, liquid 3%) 1) After thoroughly drying hair and scalp, apply 0.5 to 1 mL of this medication to the affected area twice a day (morning, evening) for a minimum of 4 months.

This medication should not be used by individuals with certain conditions. For instance, women using the 5% formulation should avoid it if they are under 18, pregnant, or breastfeeding, and those with an allergy to this medication or its ingredients should also refrain from its use. It is advisable not to use this medication if individuals have issues related to the heart or blood pressure, are not genetically predisposed to hair loss, have recently experienced sudden partial hair loss, or have inflammation, infection, or irritation on the scalp. Caution is also needed if using other scalp medications or if the scalp has been shaved. While using this medication, it is best not to simultaneously apply other topical medications such as topical corticosteroids, retinoids, or petroleum jelly. If currently taking vasodilating medications, one should be cautious as this medication may lower blood pressure. Elderly patients over 55 years, those with edema, or individuals with thyroid dysfunction should consult a physician or pharmacist before use. Additionally, those allergic to propylene glycol, an ingredient in this medication, should use it cautiously. If unusual symptoms occur during use, such as itching, rash, redness, or dermatitis, immediately stop using it and consult a professional. Systemic reactions such as indigestion, palpitations, shortness of breath, or dizziness may also occur, so caution is necessary. Excessive absorption of this medication can affect the heart, therefore it is crucial to adhere to the dosage regimen. It should not be used on the scalp if there are wounds or inflammation. If a dose is forgotten, do not compensate at the next application but continue with regular dosing. This medication is ineffective for hair loss caused by certain factors such as poor nutritional status, thyroid deficiency, chemotherapy, or scalp injuries. In cases of overuse, symptoms such as hypotension, increased heart rate, and fluid retention may arise, so immediate consultation with healthcare providers is required if these symptoms occur. This medication is intended for external use only and should not be applied to areas other than the scalp. Do not use occlusive dressings and take care to avoid contact with eyes or sensitive areas. After use, wash hands thoroughly and wait until this medication is completely dry before using hair styling products. This medication is flammable, so it must not be kept near flames or heat sources and should be stored out of reach of children. Moreover, store it in its original container to prevent quality deterioration or misuse.

Serious side effects

Hives, severe swelling, chest tightness, difficulty breathing, cold sweat, pallor, severe rash accompanied by high fever, blisters, skin peeling, oral/ocular mucosal pain, difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, asthma attacks, respiratory abnormalities accompanied by cough and fever, jaundice of the skin or eyes, generalized malaise, sudden and severe headache, lightning-like headache, seizures, confusion, visual disturbances, paralysis, significantly reduced urine output, severe systemic reactions.

Mild side effects

• Itching
• scaling
• erythema/redness
• dermatitis
• skin dryness
• hypertrichosis
• folliculitis
• burning sensation
• rash
• peeling

Drug interactions

This medication should not be used in conjunction with other scalp treatments, topical corticosteroids, retinoids, petroleum jelly, ditranol, or drugs known to enhance percutaneous absorption. Additionally, avoid using it with vasodilators such as guanethidine.

This medication is sensitive to light, so it should be stored in a container that blocks light. Additionally, it is best to keep it at room temperature, between 1°C and 30°C.

Appearance

Pale brown transparent liquid

Package unit

1 bottle/box [60mL/bottle]